Solar eclipses are special events, and you don’t get to see them very often. An eclipse is a perfect experience to share with family and friends, and some people have parties or gatherings to celebrate. However, eclipses can be dangerous if you don’t have the right glasses for solar eclipse viewing. Here is important information on the subject to keep you and your loved ones safe.
What Are Eclipses?
As the earth orbits the sun, the moon also orbits the earth. Normally, you can see the sun in the daytime, any time there’s no significant cloud cover. Occasionally, the moon passes between the earth and the sun, and in some parts of the planet, the moon’s shadow blocks the sun for a few minutes. This is a total eclipse, and it causes everything to go dark, and even dusk to dawn lighting will come on. As the moon moves on, its shadow gradually leaves the sun’s light, and everything returns to normal.
Looking at the Sun
Most people would never think about staring at the sun for a long time. Even just a few seconds of direct sun viewing is very painful, and we usually turn away. During an eclipse, the bright sunlight is blocked, and you can look at the blocked sun without pain. However, the dangerous ultraviolet light is not blocked by the moon and without special glasses for solar eclipse viewing, you risk eye damage which can be permanent in some cases.
Use Approved Viewers
You can avoid eye problems when you buy inexpensive glasses for solar eclipse viewing. Some of these glasses and viewers cost less than one dollar apiece. Make sure to buy CE certified products that block one hundred percent of ultraviolet rays. The best viewers have instructions printed on the sides, so be sure to read and follow them.
